The Achilles tendon is the most powerful tendon in your body. It is located in the lower back part of the leg and works with the calf muscles to provide forceful foot movements. Achilles tendon ruptures most commonly occur as a result of sports injuries from activities such as basketball, football or tennis. They can also result from a condition called Achilles tendonitis. Individuals with Achilles tendonitis have weakened and inflamed tendons that are susceptible to injury.
Achilles Tendon Tear Symptoms
Achilles tendon ruptures most commonly occur in men between the ages of 30 and 50 years old who participate in sports. Sports such as basketball, football, and tennis require quick forward and backward leg movements, jumping, and cutting that can create an imbalance of pressure on the leg and foot. The Achilles tendon can rupture when the flexed foot sustains a sudden strong force, and the calf muscles powerfully shorten.
A loud “pop” may be heard when the Achilles tendon ruptures. Most individuals feel a sudden painful “snap” in the back of the calf or lower leg followed by sharp severe pain. Swelling and skin discoloration in the back of the calf will often develop because of bleeding beneath the skin. If you suffer an Achilles tendon tear, you will be unable to point your feet downward or raise your heels upward making it difficult to walk, jump stand on your toes and climb stairs.
